Apivar strips are miticide treatments designed to control Varroa mite infestations in beehives. Containing the active ingredient amitraz, they are easy to use and highly effective, promoting hive health and productivity.
What Are Apivar Strips?
Apivar strips are a miticide treatment specifically designed to control Varroa mite infestations in beehives. They contain the active ingredient amitraz, which effectively kills mites by bringing them into contact with the strips. These strips are placed inside the hive, typically suspended between frames, allowing bees to come into contact with them. The strips are easy to use and highly effective in promoting hive health and productivity. They are applied by hanging them in areas of high bee activity, ensuring maximum exposure. The treatment duration usually lasts several weeks, and it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and removal to ensure safety and efficacy. Apivar strips are a popular choice among beekeepers due to their convenience and effectiveness in managing Varroa mites, which are a significant threat to bee colonies.
Importance of Apivar in Beekeeping
Apivar strips play a crucial role in beekeeping by effectively managing Varroa mite infestations, which are a significant threat to honey bee colonies. Varroa mites weaken bees, making them more susceptible to diseases and reducing hive productivity. Apivar’s active ingredient, amitraz, works through contact, killing mites and preventing their reproduction. This treatment is essential for maintaining healthy colonies, as it reduces the risk of colony collapse and promotes stronger, more resilient bees. Additionally, Apivar is easy to use, requiring minimal equipment and effort, making it a practical solution for beekeepers. By controlling mite populations, Apivar helps ensure the longevity and productivity of beehives, which is vital for both commercial and hobbyist beekeeping operations. Its effectiveness and ease of application make it a cornerstone in modern beekeeping practices aimed at safeguarding honey bee health.
Application Instructions
Apivar strips are suspended between frames in the brood chamber where bee activity is highest. Use one strip per five frames of bees, requiring no additional tools for placement.
Where to Place the Strips
Position Apivar strips in the brood chamber, where bee activity is highest. Place one strip every five frames, ensuring bees can access both sides for effective mite control.
How to Hang the Strips
To ensure proper placement, hang Apivar strips vertically between frames in the brood chamber. Use one strip per five frames of bees, positioning them where bee activity is highest.
This allows bees to come into contact with both sides of the strip, maximizing the treatment’s effectiveness. Strips can also be suspended from the top of the frame using a triangular tag for secure placement.
Avoid overcrowding by maintaining a minimum distance of two frames between strips. Proper hanging ensures even distribution of the active ingredient, amitraz, and prevents damage to the hive structure.
Leave the strips in place for 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the brood area size. After the treatment period, carefully remove the strips to prevent residue buildup and maintain hive health.
Treatment Schedule
Apivar strips should be applied twice yearly: once in spring before nectar collection and once in autumn after harvesting. Leave strips in hives for 6–8 weeks.
When to Use Apivar
Apivar strips are most effective when used during periods of high bee activity, typically in spring before nectar collection begins and in autumn after honey harvest. This ensures maximum contact between the bees and the strips, enhancing the treatment’s efficacy. The strips should not be applied during winter or when supers are on the hive, as this can reduce their effectiveness. Proper timing is crucial to minimize the risk of resistance and ensure the health of the colony. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for application to achieve optimal results and maintain hive health throughout the year.
How Long to Leave the Strips
Apivar strips should be left in the hive for a minimum of 6 weeks to ensure effective treatment against Varroa mites. However, the duration can extend up to 8-10 weeks, depending on the size of the brood area. Larger brood areas may require a longer treatment period to maximize the strips’ effectiveness. It is crucial not to leave the strips in place during the winter or when supers are on the hive. After the treatment period, the strips must be removed to prevent any potential resistance and ensure the health of the colony. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the exact duration, and avoid reusing the strips to maintain their efficacy and safety for the bees.
Safety Precautions
Apivar strips require careful handling to ensure bee and beekeeper safety. Always wear protective gear, including gloves and a veil, when applying or removing the strips to minimize exposure.
Protective Gear for Beekeepers
When handling Apivar strips, beekeepers must wear appropriate protective gear to minimize exposure. A full beekeeping suit, gloves, and a veil are essential to protect skin and clothing from potential contact with the miticide. The suit should be tightly sealed at the wrists, ankles, and neck to prevent any exposure. Gloves, preferably made of durable materials like nitrile or leather, should be worn to handle the strips safely. A veil ensures that the face and neck are protected, as these areas are particularly sensitive. Additionally, beekeepers should avoid wearing loose clothing that could allow the strips to come into contact with skin. After handling the strips, wash hands thoroughly and change clothing to prevent any residual exposure. Proper protective gear ensures both the beekeeper’s safety and the effectiveness of the treatment.
Handling the Strips Safely
Handling Apivar strips requires careful attention to safety to avoid exposure and ensure effective treatment. Always wear protective gear, including gloves and a beekeeping suit, to prevent skin contact with the strips. Avoid touching the strips directly, as the active ingredient, amitraz, can be absorbed through the skin. If accidental contact occurs, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water; Never reuse Apivar strips, as this can lead to the development of mite resistance. After placing the strips in the hive, ensure they are securely positioned to avoid accidental removal by bees or weather conditions. Remove the strips after the recommended treatment period and dispose of them properly to prevent environmental contamination. Follow all label instructions to ensure safe handling and optimal effectiveness of the treatment.
Post-Treatment Guidelines
After treatment, remove the Apivar strips and dispose of them properly. Monitor hive health to ensure bees recover and remain strong, supporting their overall well-being effectively.
Removing the Strips
After the treatment period of 6 to 8 weeks, carefully remove the Apivar strips from the hive to prevent prolonged exposure. Avoid damaging the strips or disturbing the bees during removal. Dispose of used strips properly, following environmental guidelines to prevent contamination. Ensure no residue remains in the hive that could harm the bees. After removal, inspect the hive for any signs of mite resistance or lingering infestation. Monitor bee health and activity to confirm the treatment’s effectiveness. Proper removal is essential to maintain hive safety and prevent the development of mite resistance. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for disposal and post-treatment care to ensure optimal results and protect your colony’s well-being.
Monitoring Hive Health
After applying Apivar strips, it is crucial to monitor hive health closely to ensure the treatment’s effectiveness and the colony’s well-being. Begin by inspecting the hive for signs of mite infestation, such as mites on bees or in hive debris. Check the brood health by examining frames for capped cells and larvae, ensuring no adverse effects from the treatment. Observe bee behavior for normal activity levels and feeding patterns. Additionally, monitor honey production to ensure it remains unaffected. Regularly count mite drop using a sticky board or sugar shake test to assess mite population reduction. If mite levels remain high or resistance is suspected, consider alternative treatments. Continue monitoring for several weeks post-treatment to confirm the colony’s recovery and stability. This proactive approach ensures the long-term health and productivity of your bees.